O.J. Simpson is one of the greatest athletes to ever come out of California. He was also a controversial figure in his post playing days. His presence both in the sports world as well as the broader American society can’t go unnoticed.
Simpson has also passed away at the age of 76. His family posted on social media that the former Heisman winner and NFL running back has died.
“On April 10th, our father, Orenthal James Simpson, succumbed to his battle with cancer. He was surrounded by his children and grandchildren. During this time of transition, his family asks that you please respect their wishes for privacy and grace.”
The Simpson family press release on O.J. Simpson’s death
A star at the University of Southern California during his college career, Simpson is largely considered one of the greatest amateur athletes ever. He put up nearly 3,800 total yards and 36 touchdowns in two seasons with the Trojans.
This enabled Simpson to become the No 1 overall pick of the Buffalo Bills in the 1968 NFL Draft. He’d go on to be one of the best running backs in NFL history, earning six Pro Bowl trips and becoming a five-time All-Pro performer in Western New York.
- O.J. Simpson stats: 11,236 rushing yards, 61 TD
Simpson’s post-football career initially started as a broadcaster for NFL games as well as a part-time actor in Hollywood.
He then found himself in the limelight of broader American society after his ex-wife Nicole Brown and her friend Ron Goldman were found dead in Southern California. Ultimately, Simpson was charged with their murder in June of 1964 after taking the police on a chase in his white Ford Bronco through the freeways of Southern California.
After the most-publicized trial in American history, Simpson was found not-guilty in a controversial verdict in 1995.
The Pro Football Hall of Famer is survived by five children.